Annie and I arrived at the Institución Educativa Gabo bright and early Monday morning. Gabo has so many students that that the day is divided into to "turns." The morning turns starts at 6:30 am with one group of students. The afternoon turn is a different group of students. Gabo is surrounded by high walls and one closely guarded entrance. We were met at the gate by a gentleman who knew each child by name and kept the students and staff safe throughout the day. Our arrival created quite a buzz! The students were shy at first. They would quickly warm up and we became fast friends with so many of them. Upon our arrival, all students and staff gathered in the courtyard for a welcome ceremony that would set the tone for a great week at Gabo! Students quickly assembled in the courtyard area of Gabo school. There were so many kids! In fact, most classes had more than 40 students (and we complain about class size)! Annie and I were whisked away to a special table draped in white. We were joined by the Secretary of Education, the Bilingual Coordinator and other fancy people. Two students outfitted in traditional dress poured cups of delicious Colombian coffee and the ceremony kicked off with a speech by a member of the senior class. After the ceremony we were interviewed by the local t.v. station. #localcelebrities After a very eloquent introduction by a member of the 2018 senior class, Annie and I each gave PowerPoint presentations detailing our lives in the United States. The students were shocked when I gave my presentation in Spanish! This most amazing welcome ceremony would be repeated in varying forms throughout our time at each of Gabo's branches. Each time we were welcomed with enthusiasm, love and pride. We often joked that we hoped our home schools would welcome us back in similar fashion.
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AuthorI am a professional educator, lifelong learner, and global citizen with a passion for travel! Archives
September 2018
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